Afghanistan War veterans reunite, talk about return to civilian life | 60 Minutes Archive
In a Nutshell
Afghanistan War veterans from Golf Company, 2/8 Marines, reunited after five years to confront the lasting impact of combat and their struggles returning to civilian life. Many carry deep psychological wounds—PTSD, survivor’s guilt, isolation, and suicidal thoughts—while some, like Rory Hamill who lost a leg, have found purpose through work helping other wounded warriors. The reunion underscores their unbreakable brotherhood and the ongoing challenge of translating battlefield bonds and purpose into civilian existence.
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Two and a half million Americans served in Iraq and Afghanistan. The 60 Minutes team revisited Golf Company, Second Battalion of the Eighth Marines, who were first met in 2009 when they were taking the highest casualties on Afghanistan's most lethal battlefield. The reunion took place in Washington the previous summer, where the Marines' searing experience had made them brothers in war and peace.
The veterans were caught up with on a field trip during their Washington reunion. They fell in without uniforms, weapons, or the passing of years. They were mostly civilians now, gathered in one place where they could be together and say things that had been left unsaid or deliver news of the last five years.
Golf Company's Lance Corporal Burrow and Lieutenant Bourgeoa were enlisted in the ranks of Arlington National Cemetery. Each stone arch served as a gateway through time. Names mentioned included Lance Corporal Jonathan F. Straoud and Lance Corporal Gregory A. Posey. In September 2009, Golf Company had stood rigid in a mudwalled memorial service, coming to grips with the terrible loss signified by seven battlefield crosses.
First Sergeant Robert Pulland called the role of the dead, including Lance Corporal Patrick W. Shiml, Lance Corporal Dennis J. Burl, Lance Corporal Javier OA, and Lance Corporal David R. Hall. The seven Marines had died fighting to clear and hold the Taliban heartland during exhausting months negotiating around landmines and skeptical elders.
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